I started my year in the best way possible in a winter wonderland called Denmark….. First stop was a small town called Slagelse….hmmmm….that be “slayelsa” to you and me! I wouldn’t say the Danish are the most appreciative of audiences I have played to….mainly due to there inability to rapidly put there hands together when a song is finished. I think its because when they have social gatherings they are more interested in each other than a musician on a stage. They even have a word called “Hygge” I don’t think there is word in English but it roughly translates to “friendly warm companionship”. Having said that I always felt welcome everywhere I played and at the end always had people asking questions and showing interest in my career.
Next stop – Copenhagen or “Hopenehagen” as its been referred to recently. I soon realised after the first night of playing here it was going to be tough, with it being mid week and mid January. Some nights were a hit but some nights were a miss. I did enjoy my time here it’s a self confident, cultured city, full of well dressed people….oh and its definitely another case of “Something In The Water”.
One thing I was beginning to notice more and more in most buildings be it houses, cafes, bars or restaurants was fairy lights. At first you would be forgiven in thinking the people are too lazy to take them down after Christmas but no….If you think about it, it makes total sense. In Denmark Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tales are the literary staple for every generation. I also noticed throughout most of Denmark the tempo of life is very laid back and haven’t seen anything like it since Thailand or the South Pacific. To me they are the “mañana” nation of the north.
Then to Odense and the birth place of “Mr Anderson”. It was a weekend gig so thankfully a better crowd and a much better atmosphere. Either recession didn’t hit Denmark or they don’t understand it! Try getting a table in any restaurant in any city…..culinary experts they are but its safe to say they are a little lost on the music front. One night I was lucky enough to find a table in a restaurant and they were playing the Jimmy Nail back catalogue! I am coming back in June which im looking forward to where I will be able to witness the Midnight Sun and the bbqs, festivals and parties commence!
